Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an excellent energy efficient investment that prevents loss of heat in winter and helps to keep your home cooler in the summer. The ability to have your double-glazed windows repaired as needed is a great way to keep them working effectively.
Over time condensation and misting could affect your double-glazed windows. This can cause your double glazed windows to be difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A rogue ball, a flying stone from your lawnmowers or a storm that is strong enough can break your double-pane windows, leaving you home vulnerable to the elements. Although a cracked glass window is difficult to repair however, it does not need to be replaced. In fact the insulated glass between the two panes is in good condition and you can fix your double-pane windows with some DIY effort.
First, you'll need to take any broken glass from the frame. You'll need to be cautious to keep glass shards from falling onto the floor or sliding out of the frame. Wear gloves for you hands, and an abrasive cloth around the damaged glass to avoid further damage or cuts. After removing the broken pane, carefully clean the entire frame of the window to eliminate any remaining sealant or debris. It's important to sand rough areas of your frame to create a smooth surface for your new glass.
After cleaning the frame and removing the dust, you can apply another layer of glass to the seam where you removed the broken pane. This is the best method to ensure your window stays secure and sealed, and it will aid in reducing energy costs by stopping drafts and water from entering your home. The next step is to choose the material for your glazing. There are a variety of options, including clear tape which is more robust than regular tape and will help keep your window from further cracking, as well as glazing film that resembles clear plastic wrap. The benefit of this option is that it can be painted to match the frame you have and will also keep out rain and snow as well.
No matter what material you choose it is important to press the glazier's points into that place where the putty joins your frame. They will help keep the glass in place, and will help it stick to the frame. Hardware stores sell glazier's ropes that you can roll out onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
Double glazing is susceptible to condensation issues and if you experience this issue, it is best to contact the company that supplied the window. There are warranties and guarantees to address the issues. Condensation and fogging between panes of glass is a clear sign that the seals between your windows are broken and can only be fixed by an expert who will replace both panes.
It's a difficult process that requires special tools to remove and replace the old window. A professional can complete this job and provide the tools. Utilizing these tools could be dangerous, so it is always recommended to leave this kind of job to a professional.
If you decide to undertake this yourself, ensure you wear gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from broken pieces of glass that could fly off during the process. It is crucial to remove all metal or putty points from the grooves that will receive the new window. It is also recommended to brush the frame with wire, and then vacuum or wipe it clean with a damp cloth. Once window repairs near me the frame has dried you'll have to purchase a replacement piece of glass that is 1/8" shorter in both directions than the existing window. Check the glass's fit into the grooves.
You'll have to apply a layer of silicone caulk in the grooves of frames to ensure your new glass is securely installed. Once the silicone caulk has dried, you can smooth it out and make any adjustments. The wood molding can be reinstalled.
Double-glazed windows can become difficult to open or close if the weather changes dramatically. Extreme temperatures can cause frames of double-glazed windows to expand or contract, causing them to become sagging and stick. If this is the issue, you can try wiping down the frames with water and then lubricating the joints. However, it might be best to contact the company who installed your windows for help.
Misunderstood
Misted Double Glazing is a problem with windows that develops when moisture gets trapped between the glass panes of double glazed windows. Double glazing consists of two panes of glass which are separated by an insulating space typically filled with argon gas for better thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight seal that keeps warm room air inside and cold outdoor air outside and allows you to keep the temperature in your home comfortable.
In time, however, this seal can break down and moisture will start to build up between the window panes, which causes them to turn misty. This happens because the gap between the panes gets heated by the sun, which causes water vapour to build up in it.
This is a natural occurrence however, if it happens between the windows' panes it could be a problem because it won't be able to control the temperature inside the room. Instead the temperature outside the window will influence the temperature inside. Northfield Glass can help you when your double-glazed windows begin to fog.
We can replace the individual sealed blown unit without having to replace the whole window which is less disruptive than a total replacement. Our misty glass repair consists of removing and cleaning the glass before replacing it with a brand new one. This will result in a seal that is watertight and will be watertight.
There are some companies in the industry which claim to drill holes in your windows with mist and inject chemicals into them which they say removes the fog & condensation however, we do not recommend this method. This method isn't just unsightly but could also damage the toughened glass, leaving you with a window that does not function properly.
If you don't take care to fix the problem immediately it could result in mold, which could not only harm the window, but cause health risks for your family members. The moisture in the window may cause other problems within your home like damp or rot. In some instances, the window may need to be completely replaced.
Blown or failed
Modern double-glazed windows feature two glass panes, with an inert gas or air in between them. This improves their thermal efficiency by keeping warm air in and cold air out. As time passes the gas may become depressurized, causing many problems.
Condensation between the panes is among the most common. Although it's a normal occurrence and doesn't mean that your window is failing however it could be an indication that you need to re-seal your windows. Condensation may be an indication that your double glazing is damaged and, in that case, it's time to get it replaced completely.
Double-glazed windows can also create drafts. This could be caused by an issue with the seal or a damaged handle lock. A draught can be quite noticeable and will lead to higher heating costs, so it is important that you get this fixed sooner rather than later. Test the seals around the window frame by feeling the cold air.
You will also notice water beads on the outside of windows if the window seals aren't performing as they should. This is a sign that you should re-seal your double glazed windows.
The frames of your windows are designed to move a bit as they have to do in order to keep the glass sheets in place. Over time, this special packaging material can become compressed. This will cause the seal to become broken. This will allow air to flow between the panes and reduce the energy efficiency of your window.
Double glazing that has blown a seal is an indication of a failure and should be repaired immediately. A damaged seal will stop your double glazing from performing its primary function of keeping cold out and warm inside. In addition, a blown seal will let your home's moisture in, which could cause mold and other unpleasant conditions. It is important to contact a double glazing repair expert as soon as you notice a blown seal in your double glazed windows, since they could replace the whole unit.